Apple will update its iMac desktop family late next month, it has been claimed - and that the move that will see the 17in model dropped from the line up.

Apple currently offers four standard iMac models: two 17in machines, a 20in version and a fourth, with a 24in display. According to a ThinkSecret report, only the 20in and 24in models will survive the June update.

But most likely by taking on a range of configurations each. iMac pricing currently ranges from £679/$999 for a 17in, 1.83GHz model up to the 24in, 2.16GHz iMac, priced at £1349/$1999.

Apple's iMac line-up: soon to be one chassis shorter?

As per the recent MacBook update, the new iMac line-up is likely to see small price drops accompanied by beefier processor, memory and hard drive specs, with 20in models moving downmarket and the 24-inchers filling out the top end of the range.

Why the change? Nowadays, 20in LCDs are barely more expensive than 17in screens, and by moving from three chassis to two, Apple reduces its production costs. Other differences between models are just a matter of slotting in different components.